Charity Event To Pay Tribute To Dylan Hockley

A group of friends, some of who knew Dylan Hockley, are aiming to help autism charities in his memory.

Hundreds of people are expected to fill a June fun day in tribute to the 6-year-old former Eastleigh schoolboy, who was killed in the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in America.

From midday on Saturday 29th June The Hub at Bishopstoke, Eastleigh will be filled with stalls, competitions, taster sessions and raffles. There will be a ticketed evening session for 250 people with live music, an auction and a barbecue.

Both parts of the day are being held to raise money for Hampshire Autistic Society. Dylan was diagnosed with autism while still living in England.

Lin Trott, organiser and friend of Dylan's parents, said:

"Dylan lived in Eastleigh until he was 5, and his family had strong links with many of us in Hampshire. He was a joy to be around, had a loving nature, a smile that could light up a room and an infectious laugh. He loved the colour purple and always looked for the moon in the night sky. Dylan was autistic, and he would often flap his hands when excited. When asked why he flapped, he said he was "a beautiful butterfly", this is why the purple butterfly motif is at the very heart of this event.

"As I watched the events of the 14th December I began to realise the size of the tragedy and when I heard the tragic confirmation that Dylan had died, there was a huge feeling of shock and heartbreak. After returning from Dylan's Memorial Service in America I had a strong need to do something practical in Dylan's memory.

"If we can raise money for Hampshire Autistic Society, raise awareness of the condition and people can enjoy a unique event on a summer's afternoon then we will be very pleased."

Dylan's parents Nicole and Ian strongly support the event:

"We are deeply honoured that this event is being run in memory of our beloved son Dylan. He was a wonderful boy, and with the excellent support of his educators he was making great progress at school and overcoming his challenges. We are excited that the money raised from this event will give other autistic children the opportunity to develop to their full potential."Lin said: "Dylan was only 6 years old and was one of 20 children and 6 adults that died. We want this day to be a celebration of his short life and something which creates a lasting benefit for others, particularly children and parents living with autism."

For more information about the event or offers of help, contact www.aday4dylan.co.uk or @Aday4dylan on Twitter.